Every year the common cold is a leading cause of doctor visits and missed days from school and work. There are many ways to ward off a cold, but did you know taking good care of your mouth is a great way to prevent seasonal illness? Enhancing your oral health can help boost your immunity and prevent the spread of certain infections.
Here are some great tips to help you enhance your daily oral health routine for the upcoming cold and flu season:
- Try gargling with warm, crystal salt water. Himalayan crystal salt can reduce inflammation and restore your mouth’s pH balance at the cellular level. Himalayan crystal salt is a very pure form of salt, with over 80 important trace minerals. And, it does not negatively affect the body the way chemically processed table salt can.
- Brush your teeth and tongue at least two times a day. Gum disease and decay make for an unhealthy oral environment and have been shown to compromise proper immune functions, making you more susceptible to respiratory infections.
- Change your toothbrush. Your toothbrush acquires a host of viruses and bacteria – from your mouth and also from the environment. Toss your toothbrush immediately after any illness. Regardless of illness, be sure to replace your toothbrush every three to four months, or sooner if the bristles are frayed.
When you get a cold or the flu, you may not feel like taking care of your oral health until you get better. But, we’ve made it easy to keep your smile healthy even when you’re under the weather. Try our tips to keep your smile healthy when you’re sick!
